Correct Option
The correct option is 3 only.
Explanation
Article 143 of the Constitution of India authorizes the President to seek the opinion of the Supreme Court on specific matters. This is known as the advisory jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. It serves as a mechanism for the executive to obtain high-level judicial opinion on legal questions or matters of public importance.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. The opinion expressed by the Supreme Court under its advisory jurisdiction is merely advisory in nature and is not a judicial pronouncement. Therefore, it is not binding on the President. The President may follow or disregard the opinion.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect. The Supreme Court is not bound to give advice on every matter referred to it. Under Article 143(1), which deals with matters of public importance, the Court may refuse to give an opinion (e.g., in the Ayodhya Reference case, 1993). However, under Article 143(2), regarding disputes arising out of pre-constitution treaties or agreements, the Court is obligated to tender its opinion. Since the statement claims the Court is bound in "every matter," it is factually wrong.
- Statement 3 is Correct. The primary objective of Article 143 is to enable the Government of India to obtain an authoritative legal opinion on a question of law or fact of public importance that has arisen or is likely to arise. This helps the government assess the legal validity of its actions before implementation.
Key Takeaway
Key Takeaway: The advisory jurisdiction (Article 143) is neither binding on the President to accept nor binding on the Supreme Court to deliver in all cases (specifically under Clause 1). It is a consultative function distinct from the Court's adjudicatory functions.